Thanksgiving is my favorite day of the year—and not just because my birthday sometimes falls on the holiday. I love Thanksgiving because it is a day set aside for slowing down, gathering with loved ones, and reflecting on the many blessings in our lives.
I created a list of questions to spark conversation with my family around the Thanksgiving table several years ago. What followed was a life-giving discussion that I still cherish today. Whether you find it challenging to keep the conversation flowing and feel overwhelmed by the pressure of Thanksgiving chatter, or you simply want to add some fresh questions to your repertoire, these thoughtful prompts are perfect for breaking the ice and deepening your Thanksgiving gathering.
For deeper personal reflection, consider using a question or two as journal prompts, and record your answer to revisit next year.
- What Thanksgiving dish would you “vote off the island” first? Why?
- Who are you thankful for this year, and why?
- Are there any books, movies, or songs you are thankful for this year?
- What is one unexpected blessing you received this year that you’re thankful for?
- What is one Thanksgiving tradition you would like to pass on to your current or future family?
- Are there any sermons or passages of Scripture that you are thankful for this year?
- What opportunities or achievements are you thankful for this year?
- Who has had the most influence on your life this year? How have they influenced you?
- What is one goal you would like to accomplish before the end of this year? What about next year?
- Which family memory from this year are you most grateful for, and why?
- Is there a challenge you faced this year that you’re now thankful for? How has it shaped you?
- What piece of advice or encouragement did you receive this year that made a lasting impact on you?
- What is one small joy or habit from this year that has brought you unexpected gratitude?
- What is one thing you’ve learned about yourself this year?
- What is one thing you’ve learned about God this year?
